That morning, Cura sat at the dinner table in her living room, and enjoyed a nice, warmed mead that Calder had poured for her. Time passed, and she continued to wait for her friends to awake and join her.

Lucien was the first one to wake up, and he came downstairs from one of the guest rooms. "Goooood morning, Candle! Sleep well?" He waved to the Dragonborn as he approached the table and took a seat.

"Could've been better. How did you sleep?" Cura shrugged her shoulders as she carefully neglected to mention her experience at the Abandoned Shack last night. It was all so surreal; and yet she would expect herself to be consumed with guilt after killing that unarmed Bandit, but she wasn't. She felt a cold neutral to the fact. It was as she had feared; she was numb to death. Or, at the very least, to causing it.

"Quite well, actually. With the exception that I was incredibly excited to see the College of Winterhold!" Lucien exclaimed happily. "I've spent many ages in the Arcane University, and I really want to see how your entrance exam is going to go! After all, not just anybody can waltz into the Arcane University. You need recommendations from all of the Mages Guild quarters throughout the province before they even let you past the gate!"

"I'm sure Skyrim won't be as elaborate." Cura stated. "After all, we are a land ripped apart by war and Dragons. I'm sure they would have had to adapt accordingly."

"Then their security would be doubled, I should think." Lucien pondered. "Safety should be their number one priority!"

"I walked right in once to deliver a parcel from the Vigil to one of their teachers." Cura said calmly as she took another nonchalant sip of her mead, causing Lucien's expression to sink.

"You can't be serious." Lucien's jaw hung open.

"Well, the teacher knew the Keeper, so I suppose she wasn't wary of any explosive contents or poisonous powders." Cura proposed.

"Wait, Carcette has Winterhold connections?" Lucien asked, caught by surprise. "Then why in Oblivion didn't she use them?! They certainly could have been helpful in the event of a vampire attack, I'm sure!"

Cura shook her head. "Not really a 'connection' as you would think, but an old friend from High Rock. Turns out they both pursued Restoration, but the Keeper abandoned her studies in the Temple to instead join the Vigil of Stendarr. Her friend, who I will point out to you, ascended to the top of the Restoration school and now teaches at the College of Winterhold. It was kind of funny that they took two different routes and both wound up here in Northern Skyrim for all these years."

"Indeed. I've always found fate to have a sense of irony sometimes." Lucien scratched his chin.

"'Ah, came the dawn! Inigo the Brave vivaciously approached with arms outstretched, ready to take on the world in a whirl of fire and blood, by the sides of his two great allies, the great mighty Sun Goddess Dragon and the Scholar boy!'" Inigo exclaimed with his arms out wide as he descended the stairs in noble fashion, donning a floppy fine hat and blue fine robes.

Cura couldn't help but chuckle. "Good morning to you too, Inigo."

Lucien almost burst out laughing and leaned his face downwards to the table.

"Will Serana be up soon?" Cura asked, wondering about her vampire friend.

"Oh, Serana is not here. She went to the Soul Cairn to speak with her mother." Inigo stated.

Cura nodded. "Then I'll wait for her to return before we go to Winterhold." She walked over to the hearth and began to scoop out some Horker Stew for herself and her friends.

Calder wasn't the best cook around by any means, but he was not cheap when it came to the butter. It was quite delicious regardless.


Serana ignored the fearful lightning crashes as she reentered the dark colosseum within the Soul Cairn.

Durnehviir was more or less pacified, and recognized the vampiress as friend of the Qahnaariin, and allowed her peaceful entry as he continued to soar the blackened skies above.

Valerica seemed to be mixing potions over by her alchemy table when she saw her daughter return. Immediately, she dropped her pestle and rushed to embrace her daughter. Serana's grim expression told her much. "Oh, Serana... are you all right?" she asked.

Serana hugged her mother tighter than ever before, and took a moment to gather together the words to describe what happened. Though, her reaction spoke volumes for her. "Father is gone. Cura and I defeated him."

Valerica's eyes widened as she heard this, but peace softly washed over her for those precious few moments of their embrace. "Then I see nothing preventing my return to Tamriel. Allow me to gather some of my things and I'll head back to Castle Volkihar. And from the bottom of my heart, I thank you. Both of you."

Cura was not there, but Valerica wished to express her gratitude to her just the same for keeping true to her word and protecting Serana.

"I'll tell Cura for you." Serana stated.

"A Vampire Huntress who protected a vampire from the others in her entourage, even in her sworn duty..." Valerica mused. "I will admit that I had not expected it."

"I didn't either, at first." Serana confessed. "I just felt I had nowhere else to turn. It turns out that was the right choice."

Valerica began to bag up her ingredients and her alembic, mortar, and pestle. "Sometimes fate pushes us in a certain direction, sometimes we move fate along. What I can say from centuries of experience is that our decisions define who we are, and who we are not. Not our races, nor our species or curses." She swept off the table and placed her bag on her back. "That friend of yours... Cura... it turns out that I was wrong in my judgment of her. I assumed she looked at us all as deformed, irredeemable monsters to be used to destroy our own, but that is not the case, given her kinder treatment of you. She has a dark side herself, even as pious as she is, and as such, understands how we can all fall prey to evil; whether mortal or vampire."

"The question remains to who you want to be." Serana stated, finishing the sentiment as they headed out of the arena and back into the bleak landscape.

"For now, I just wish to be free. Good or evil can wait until I've settled back into the castle. " Valerica said as she watched Durnehviir carefully while he soared. Though he was no longer there to watch her every move, she still felt uneasy in the Dragon's presence. "...The castle is still intact, right?"

"More or less." Serana confirmed. "There's a mess of ashes and blood all over the halls, and father's remains..." she momentarily fell silent as she said it before continuing. "...yeah. They're in the Cathedral."

"I see." Valerica understood.

"The Divines haven't abandoned us." Serana stated. "Stendarr's light destroyed the Gargoyles and Auriel's Bow weakened him greatly. And Mara... I think she guarded us. Confounded him."

"He was a fool to destroy her shrine. I did warn him that she would pay him back for it in the future at some point." Valerica scoffed as she reached the stairway to the portal.

The pair ascended into the light and reemerged in Valerica's study, though the place looked as though a hurricane had run it through.

"Ah, it's good to be home again." Valerica exclaimed joyfully as she looked at her thrashed laboratory. "...Oh... what happened?"

"I think father had the others investigate the whole tower. It's been broken up in many places." Serana identified clawmarks on the doors and desks.

"Seems like I have much to clean and repair." Valerica sighed. "I suppose I will begin with my study."

"I could stay and help..." Serana volunteered.

"No, dear; the last thing you need is to spend time in this gods-forsaken castle. It will only serve a sorrowful reminder of the past you've left behind." Valerica stated as she held Serana's shoulders. "Go, and be with your friends for now."

Serana smiled. "You're right. You'll be here anyways, right?"

"Where else would I go?" Valerica scoffed with amusement. "Take care of yourself, daughter." She placed a hand on the back of Serana's head and kissed her on the forehead, and her daughter departed.

"Farewell, mother. I'll be back, I promise." Serana assured her as she closed the balcony door.

Valerica watched her daughter leave and then proceeded to begin tidying her laboratory.


Cura, Inigo, and Lucien were chatting up a storm when Serana returned.

Her return caught their attention, and Cura was the first to greet her. "Hello, Serana! How did it go?"

Serana seemed happy. "It went well, actually. My mother is out of the Soul Cairn now, and she plans to fix up the castle."

"That's good." Cura responded.

"She also thanks you, Cura. From the bottom of her heart." Serana relayed the message. "She's happy that you kept your word."

Cura nodded. "Of course!"

"So... I'm back now. What's on the itinerary? Did some townsfolk lose their spoon in a Chaurus hive and ask us to get it, or are we going straight to Winterhold?" Serana asked dryly.

Cura giggled, understanding her exasperation. "No, straight to Winterhold. I've been there before, so it's just one Fast Travel away."

"Oh, goody. I love Fast Travelling... so much." Lucien sighed with dread. "I really hope I don't throw up in the middle of the city..."

"Think about it like flying on a Dragon through a twister!" Inigo expressed gleefully.

"That doesn't help at all." Lucien cringed.

"Ready?" Cura asked as she stepped outside, leading the group. They all joined hands, though Lucien did so with hesitation before relenting.

With a mighty wisp, the group travelled thaumaturgically through the aether before winding up in the dilapidated city of Winterhold.

Lucien stumbled to the side when they detached and hit into the wall of the Jarl's longhouse before catching himself.

Inigo placed a hand on his head, shaking off the dizziness. "Whew... that was a buzz!"

Serana seemed unfazed; a great boon to being a Vampire.

Cura herself held her breath as the world stopped spinning.

The city of Winterhold was cold and filled with snow. The stone palisades and city gates deceptively made it seem more alive than in actuality, as aside from the Inn, the Jarl's longhouse and some few residences, the homes were all broken down into piles of wood, clay and mortar; a shell of what once was.

"Welcome to Winterhold." Cura presented the sad city to her friends.

"Wait... this is the great city of Winterhold?!" Lucien exclaimed hastily. "That's... wow. They didn't even think to rebuild the houses?"

"Who could afford to with the war going on?" Cura pointed out.

"Winterhold must have been beautiful back in its day... I wish I were there to see it." Lucien lamented before coming to a nasty realization. "Why is it that all these Stormcloak-owned cities are such slums?" Lucien barked. "Riften, Windhelm, and now Winterhold. They're all so depressing!"

"And you haven't even seen Dawnstar." Cura confessed.

Cura headed up the stairs towards the palisade leading to the winding stone bridge when a High Elf woman in ornate dark gray robes stepped forward to stop her.

"Cross the bridge at your own peril! The way is dangerous, and the gate will not open. You shall not gain entry!" the Elven woman held out a hand in protest.

"Er, hi. I'm Cura, and..."

Before the youth could finish her introduction, the High Elf spoke. "Welcome to the College of Winterhold. I am Faralda, one of the senior Wizards here. I trust you found your journey to Winterhold not entirely unpleasant. Now, I must advise you that if your only purpose in being here is to complain, you would be far better off speaking with the Jarl of Winterhold. If, however, you seek something more, I will be happy to assist you... Is there some way I can assist you?"

"Yes, actually. I would like to study here at the College." Cura informed her.

"Why would we want to complain about the College?" Serana asked. As she knew it, the College was a great place for education.

"It is no great secret that we have been unjustly blamed for a great many things over the years. The good people of Skyrim on occasion would rather pass judgment than attempt to understand what we do here. Thus we must take certain precautions in order to secure our safety." Faralda explained plainly.

"You won't have that problem with us. May I enter the College?" Cura asked politely.

"Perhaps. But what is it you expect to find within?" Faralda leaned forward and scratched her chin inquisitively.

"I wish to hone my magical talents to become better not just for myself, but for all of Skyrim." Cura expressed.

"Ah, a very altruistic goal. How refreshing." Faralda seemed impressed. "It would seem that the College has what you seek. The question now is what you can offer the College. Not just anyone is allowed inside. Those wishing to enter must show some degree of skill with magic. A small test, if you will."

"A test? Cura could handle anything you throw at her!" Inigo exclaimed, elevating his friend.

"If that were so, she would not be coming here." Faralda pointed out. "We all must approach life with an inquisitive mindset, much like a child."

"Would you grant entry to the Dragonborn?" Lucien asked, pointing at Cura. "The Arcane University would absolutely kill to have such a distinguished individual among their ranks!"

"It's been so long since we've had any contact with the Greybeards. Do you really have the Voice? I would be most impressed to see that." Faralda turned to Cura, eyebrows raised.

"I do." the Breton confirmed.

"If it's true, and you do have the Voice, would you mind showing me? I've never seen it first-hand." Faralda put her hands together with excitement.

Cura pondered which Shout would be least destructive, and resolved to use her Become Ethereal. "FEIM!"

Her entire body became translucent before Faralda's very eyes, like a ghost standing before the amazed Altmer.

"So the stories are true... you are Dragonborn! Normally you'd need to show some aptitude with one of the schools of magic, but you... I think there is much that we can learn from each other." Faralda proposed. "I think you'll be a superb addition to the College. Welcome, Apprentice. I'll lead you across the bridge. Once you're inside you'll want to speak with Mirabelle Ervine, our Master Wizard. Please, follow me."

"This is all it takes to join the College of Winterhold?" Lucien's jaw dropped in disbelief at the simplicity of it. "Not even a written paper? Pah! The Arcane University would never allow such nonsense!"

"Lucien!" Cura tried to caution him against making open mockery, lest they be kicked out before even setting foot inside.

Lucien raised his hand as he followed. "I'd like to know more about the College."

"We are the only group left in Skyrim dedicated to the study of the arcane. There are others who study, to be sure, but they do so in private, and often in secret." Faralda explained as she led them ahead to a small well, similar to those in the Soul Cairn, as Cura and Serana noted.

The mage cast a Magelight spell onto the well, and it lit up like a torch.

Inigo had to resist the urge to chase after the ball of light.

Faralda exhaled as she continued up the sloped bridge. "The College is an asset to Skyrim, even if it goes unnoticed or unappreciated."

"Are there many problems with the locals?" Serana asked.

"No, not recently at least. We don't mistake that for acceptance, though. Odds are they're simply too afraid to confront us directly. And most of us are quite satisfied with that." Faralda scoffed. For all their 'ride and die' attitude, the Nords were not all that bold. "Much knowledge lies within the College's walls, and I think that is enough to keep them at bay."

"So... who is Mirabelle Ervine?" Cura asked. She wasn't familiar with the name, though a Breton being a Master Wizard was no surprise. In a college centered around magic, she was certain to run into more of them, so some distinguishing features about the person in question would be nice.

"She's the Master Wizard here. Arch-Mage Aren may be in charge, but Mirabelle runs the place. You'd do well to remember that." Faralda insisted.

Cura nodded. "Noted. But where can I find her?"

Faralda lit the second well with another magelight and turned the corner left and began to lead across the snow-covered, broken-down walkway. " Her quarters are in the Hall of Countenance, but she could be anywhere on the grounds."

"Gods, this is such a health hazard..." Lucien looked at the broken segments of the bridge and at the wide chasm below. "You'd think with all these mages that they'd be able to... I don't know... conjure up some side supports?"

Inigo shrugged. "Perhaps it is to deter wild Nords."

"Perhaps. Maybe they'd cast a fireball onto it and blow it up in the event of a siege. That... would actually be useful." Lucien pondered.

"Winterhold's glory days may lie behind it, but the College lives on." Faralda seemed to try and assure this to them; or perhaps she was trying to assure it to herself. "No matter what, the College will endure." With one final magelight, the third and final well lit up, and the gated doors that seemed to hold the insignia of a mysterious eye brimming with light streaks creaked and flew open. "Mirabelle will be waiting for you. Best go and see her as soon as possible."

"All right." Cura nodded. "I will see you around."

She and her friends headed past the Altmer mage and walked onto the campus grounds. There were alchemy gardens on the west side where many students seemed to be cultivating ingredients and brewing potions on the tables nearby. On the east side, there were benches with students wearing Novice robes eating their lunches together.

Cura, in her Apprentice Robes, looked as if she already belonged to the College. The Vigilants' robes were very similar to those worn by the mages, she realized.

At the center, atop a rise, was another well of energy, illuminated blue, beneath a large statue of a powerful male wizard in hooded robes with his arms outstretched, accepting any and all challengers into his fold.

It was very impressive, to say the least. The large doors beyond led to an even larger building that seemed to be segmented into three major towers with large walkways forming a ring around the courtyard.

No sooner did they reach the grounds than Lucien began to remark. "Well, in spite of the farce that was the entrance exam, this place is definitely worth seeing. Let's go and get that tour!"

Before the doors, Cura immediately saw two people speaking: a short Breton woman with short brown hair donning Apprentice Robes, and a tall, snooty Altmer man with long white hair. But the Altmer man was especially eye-catching to her due to his familiar black and gold uniform. He was a member of the Thalmor.

Inigo hissed instinctively when he noticed the High Elf, but Cura held him back from violence.

Whatever the topic, it seemed the Breton woman had the converstion under control. "I believe I've made myself rather clear." she crossed her arms to show that she was growing irritated with his charade.

The High Elf was trying to pry around her borders regardless, prodding for more information under the guise of understanding. "Yes of course. I'm simply trying to understand the reasoning behind the decision."

The Breton shook her head and reaffirmed her position. "You may be used to the Empire bowing to your every whim, but I'm afraid you'll find the Thalmor receive no such treatment here. You are a guest of the College, here at the pleasure of the Arch-Mage. I hope you appreciate the opportunity."

"Yes, of course. The Arch-Mage has my thanks." The Thalmor said with a sneer under his voice.

The Breton smiled and dismissed the tenacious elf. "Very good. Then we're done here."

Judging by the content of her words, Cura surmised that this must be Mirabelle Ervine, the Master Wizard. She walked around the pouting Thalmor and brushed her shoulder against his by accident.

"Watch where you're going or I'll have you flogged!" the Thalmor shouted angrily.

Cura turned around to face him. "Excuse me?"

"Ignore him. His bite is that of a flea on these grounds. The Thalmor hold no power here." the Breton woman said as she flipped through a book in her hands and began to write within it. "Welcome to the College."

"You're Mirabelle Ervine, right? I was told to come see you." Cura stated.

"Another group of new students... I'm surprised at how many of you there are lately. Well, I see you're all suited up for the college, it seems," she pointed at Cura, acknowledging the same set of robes on her, though was quick to look at her allies. "but your friends will need to wear these." Mirabelle wasted no time in walking up to Inigo, Lucien, and Serana, and handing them each a set of Novice Hoofs and Robes. Inigo got one of Illusion, Lucien got one of Destruction, and Serana got one of Conjuration.

"Wow... her insight is uncanny..." Serana remarked as she recognized the enchantment. Indeed, it was like she seemed to be able to tell what they already would major in, and assumed the Khajiit would want spells to help obfuscate himself.

"I'll give you a brief tour, and then we'll get you to your first class." Mirabelle said with a forced smile. Perhaps she has spent many days giving out these tours, and by this point only wanted to get it over with for the upteenth time. "Are you ready to begin?"

Inigo quickly threw on the Novice Hood and Robes and admired hismelf in the dark pine green raiment. He then swiftly grabbed Cura's mace and held it up in a joking threateningly manner. "The mercy of Stendarr does not extend to Daedra Worshippers!" He recited robotically.

Cura was excited and was sure to try and lighten the air a bit. "I'd love to have a look around!" She gave a friendly smile.

"Wonderful. Please follow me, and don't wander off." Mirabelle instructed as Inigo wandered off. "The College of Winterhold has been a fixture in Skyrim for thousands of years."

"Inigo!" Cura called out to her friend, noticing him heading towards the picnic tables.

"It does not matter how long I spend here. I will never master magic of any kind." Inigo confessed his lack of prowess. "But for you, my friend, I will stay. I will let you handle the magic front."

Cura looked a little disappointed for her friend, but she wouldn't force him to learn if he didn't want to. Him just being there was enough.

"Now that attitude will get you nowhere." Mirabelle chastised as she continued slowly leading the group down the walking path towards the southwestern tower. "Now, the prominent feature here is the Hall of the Elements. It's our primary location for lectures, practice sessions, and general meetings. The Arcanaeum is located above the hall, and the Arch-Mage's quarters above that. While technically in charge of the College, the Arch-Mage's responsibilities often keep him occupied. Thus, I run the day-to-day operations. Now, if you'll please follow me, I'll show you the living quarters." She pointed to the door they were just about reaching as they turned to the right past a column.

"Unfortunately, we've had to implement more stringent entry procedures, due to some problems with the local Nords. We don't anticipate any real violence, but it never hurts to be prepared." Mirabelle stated as she walked closer to the inner wall, and eventually reached the destination.

A door was in the wall with two magelights on braziers on either side of it. She paused in front of it and turned her back to the entrance and faced Cura and her friends with her hands held behind her back professionally. "Our newest members are housed here in the Hall of Attainment. I'll ask that you please keep your voice down while inside, as others may be working on research or... delicate experiments."

"What sort of delicate experiments do they do her Mie?" Serana asked.

"Alchemy, Spellcrafting, Scrollweaving." Mirabelle stated plainly. "What you would anticipate one to study in a mage's college."

"Understandable." Lucien mused.

Mirabelle pushed the door open gently and led the group inside the living quarters, and Inigo caught up quickly. The Hall of Attainment was a circular livingspace that seemed to revolve around another magic well with many cells closed with locked doors and a flight of stairs leading to a floor above which contained the same theme.

"This is a beautiful building, and not as cold as I thought it would be." Inigo mused after approaching Cura within the living quarters.

"It really is. It's everything I'd imagined and more." Cura seemed to be in awe as she ogled the incredible architecture. "Though, next to Auriel's Chantry, well, it's less impressive the more I think of it." She sighed disappointedly as she recalled the incredible Snow Elf architecture. She should have attended the College sooner; the Chantry ruined everything else for her, now.

"I thought you said you had been here before?" Inigo asked.

"I only got to the gate; never inside." Cura admitted. "They didn't let anybody in at that time."

"Now I'll show you to your quarters. You're going to be sharing space with your fellow Apprentices, who you'll meet shortly." Mirabelle walked over to the first set of rooms along the eastern wall. She pushed open the door to the first one. "You will be residing in here..." she tilted her head towards Cura, prompting her to state her name.

"Oh! Er, Cura."

"Cura." Mirabelle extended a hand towards the small chamber, leading her inside. "This is where you'll be staying. This bed and desk are yours. Please try and be considerate of others."

Cura nodded. "Of course."

Then Mirabelle pointed at Lucien.

"Er, Lucien Flavius, at your service." Lucien shook lightly as the intimidating little Breton bored her eyes into him.

Mirabelle's expression softened and she opened the door of the cell next to Cura's. "You'll be staying here, Lucien. I can see you're the studious sort. Perhaps you'll find it quite nice in the Arcaneum."

Then she looked to Inigo. "You're not here to study magic, so you can float around the halls if you like. Or, you can buckle down and be a little more serious in your pursuits and take the third room." She pointed to the third door, past Lucien's room.

"My name is Inigo. Nice to meet you, too!" the Khajiit sarcastically disregarded her remarks.

Mirabelle responded in kind by turning her attention to Serana, "..."

Serana froze for a moment as the Wizard stared her up and down, analyzing her with caution, "Well. I must say it's not quite often we get a vampire in our scholia. I trust you can keep your thirst under control, yes? I will not suffer any incidents concerning students with holes in their necks."

Serana shook her head. "I can control myself, don't worry about it."

Cura quickly vouched for her friend. "Serana is a good Vampire. You won't have any problems with her, I swear it."

"I hope you're right. But just know that if anybody is bitten, you will all be thrown out of the college. Do I make myself clear?" Mirabelle warned as she opened the fourth and final cell door, showing Serana to her small room.

"Crystal." Serana confirmed. "I wouldn't want to ruffle your feathers."

"Good. Now, let's go back to the Hall of the Elements, where most of the members gather for lectures and study sessions." Mirabelle said as she beckoned for them to follow her back outside. "Initially you'll be learning from Tolfdir, one of our most esteemed Wizards."

"Oh, so there are Nord mages, still." Serana seemed to light up a little when she heard his name. "That's a relief. I was beginning to think they all became superstitious wusses."

Mirabelle led them back to the front entrance. "Tolfdir is likely already addressing the new Apprentices. Go on in, and if you have any problems, let one of our senior members know."

"I have a question: what's expected of me here?" Cura asked. Surely there had to be more to it than just learning. Surely there was a practical element Cura would need to learn, such as magic dueling or something of that nature, or helping other students, or maybe seeing new dimensions. Perhaps she would be expected to pay them for attendance fees, or something of the like?

"There are no expectations." Mirabelle stated neutrally. "This College is a place to study and practice magic freely. Hopefully any discoveries made in your pursuits will be shared with the members of the College first. That way we all benefit."

"Where can I learn new spells?" Serana asked sincerely.

"Well, that depends on what you're looking for." Mirabelle took in a deep breath and then released it with her speech. "Faralda can teach Destruction spells, and offers training in that school. Phinis is one of the best Conjurers in all of Skyrim, and can help with spells from that school. Don't let Tolfdir fool you; he's the pre-eminent scholar on Alteration. One of the best in Tamriel, and always willing to pass on his knowledge. If you can find him and focus his attention, there's a great deal Drevis can teach you about Illusion magic. And finally, there's Colette. She may be... difficult to get along with, but she's very knowledgeable when it comes to Restoration magic."

"I know Colette Marence. She's the only professor here I've met before." Cura stated, calling back to what she had mentioned earlier.

"Do you? From where?" Mirabelle seemed genuinely curious. "She rarely gets outside on the best of days."

"She is an old friend of my boss', essentially." Cura cut if brief.

"Then perhaps you will be able to walk away without any headaches..." Mirabelle muttered. "At any rate, don't miss your first lesson. I won't keep you." She moved away from the door to allow entry.

"We're having a lesson? Already? How exciting!" Lucien exclaimed hopefully as the group stepped inside the main foyer.

"I've never attended a magical lecture before. This could be fun!" Serana was excited, herself.

"I wonder what we're going to learn today?" Cura pondered. "It's always exciting to learn a new spell!"

Immediately, Cura noticed Ancano standing by a column on the eastern side of the room. Like a Hawk scouring it's prey, he was watching a small lecture on the northeastern quarter of the large, circular room that surrounded another magic well.

Cura, Serana and Lucien drew in closet to the lecture while Inigo sat on a bench off to the side. He was more than confident in his skills as a marksman that it seemed a waste of time to learn how to hurl fireballs when Exploding Bolts of Flame existed in the world.

An old Nord with gray hair and a long beard, wearing Master Robes was lecturing the class. This had to be Tolfdir. "So, as I was saying, the first thing to understand is that magic is, by its very nature, volatile and dangerous. Unless you can control it, it can and will destroy you."

Cura and her friends looked at each other, baffled.

"Is this a first grade class, or something?" Lucien remarked, causing Serana to smirk.

Cura allowed the Dunmer girl who donned a matching outfit to hers, two people away from her to speak in her stead, as she had a feeling her sentiments echoed through the group already.

"Sir, I think we all understand that fairly well. We wouldn't be here if we couldn't control magic!" the Dunmer stated as predicted.

The large Nord man and the Khajiit with a gnarly moustache, both in Novice Robes, seemed to echo her sentiments with a frustrated nod from the Nord.

Tolfdir tried to dissuade the frustration and continue on with his point. "Of course, my dear. Of course. You all certainly possess some inherent natural ability. That much is not being questioned. What I'm talking about is true control, mastery of magic. It takes years, if not decades, of practice and study."

The Khajiit threw up his hands. "Then what are we waiting for? Let's get started!"

A cat after Inigo's own heart. The blue Khajiit to was growing restless. He wanted to see flashing lights and he wanted to see them now!

Tolfdir held out two hands calmingly. "Please, please! This is exactly what I'm talking about. Eagerness must be tempered with caution, or else disaster is inevitable."

"But we've only just arrived here - you've no idea what any of us are capable of. Why not give us a chance to show you what we can do?" the Nord demanded as he grew in frustration.

Tolfdir was at an impasse, and he turned to Cura, who was merely a bystander in student garb. "You've been quiet so far. What do you think we should do?"

"We're all here because we've done magic before, I should think." Cura stated. "Something practical would be good."

"See? Even she agrees with us!" the Dunmer girl exclaimed.

"Really?" Tolfdir was surprised. "Very well, then. We're going to learn something a bit more... practical."

Cura saw no reason to beat around the bush at this level, which Lucien and Serana absolutely agreed with.

"In continuing with our theme of safety, we'll start with Wards. Wards are protective spells that block magic. I'll teach you all a ward, and we'll see if you can successfully use it to block spells, all right?" Tolfdir relented and began to pass out Spell Tomes before turning back to the Breton who put him in this position. "Would you mind helping me with the demonstration? Are you at all familiar with ward spells?"

Cura nodded proudly. "I already know it, and already know how to use it. I've mastered Lesser and Greater Ward, and even Steadfast Ward. Never found much use for them until now, though..."

She had Spellbreaker, after all, and the overwhelming majority of her foes in Skyrim were swordsmen and archers, and rogues. She had felt for a while that Carcette may have wasted her time in teaching her Wards.

"Well, then this should be no problem at all for you." Tolfdir responded, unimpressed by the bravado.

"Now, if you'll just stand right over there, I'll cast a spell at you, and you block it with the ward. Here we go." Tolfdir directed for Cura to stand on an ornate seal on the floor depicting again the eye with decorative light streaks around it, while the other students moved out of the way. "Just opposite me, please. Wouldn't want anyone else in the way."

"You've got this, pretty girl." Serana teased Cura as she placed a hand on her shoulder while clearing the way.

"Is this a joke?" Lucien asked with bafflement. "I learned this at the Mage's Guild in Bravil. It's child stuff!"

"Now, cast the ward spell, and keep it up." Tolfdir instructed.

All eyes were on her, so Cura decided to show off her greatest Ward; the Greater Ward. She extended her left hand and cast the distorting blue energy field in front of her. It was wide and bright, like a divine shield.

"That's it! Keep it up and hold still!" Tolfdir exclaimed as he formed a fireball in his right hand and launched it right at her.

When the fireball made contact, it was drunk by the Ward's energy.

"Excellent work!" the old man cheered.

The other classmates looked onwards, impressed by her prowess.

"Well, I think this is an excellent start. I'd like you all to continue practicing with wards, please." Tolfdir instructed. "That will be all for now. Dismissed."

Lucien immediately casted a Ward and held it up with a scoff. "Child's play!" he reexclaimed with disbelief.

"I'd hoped I wasn't the only new Nord here, but I guess I should have known. The College is a bit of an oddity in Skyrim. Magic isn't something that's looked upon fondly here." the Nord student said sadly.

"Nords don't trust magic, or those that use it. Made it difficult for me growing up."

"Why aren't there many Nords at the College?" Serana wanted the definitive answer from a source. In her day, they used it frequently.

"Magic is shunned by most. If it can't be swung over your head and used to crack skulls, most Nords want nothing to do with it. Magic is seen as something for elves, and weaker races." the Nord looked at Lucien when he said this. "No offense, of course."

"Why do Nords have a problem with the College?" Serana asked. "I know it's a thing now, but why?"

The Nord looked at her, puzzled for a moment before lettering the reasons. "Well, look at the evidence. Nords generally don't trust magic, so it's not off to a good start. Throw in the Oblivion Crisis, which was caused by magic-users, and the troubles now with the Aldmeri Dominion, who are elves and magic users. And finally take the fact that the College is the only thing left standing after most of Winterhold was destroyed. It's all fairly damning."

Serana understood. "I see... then it makes sense, I suppose. But in theory, if they were so afraid of magic-users, why wouldn't they want to learn it to 'protect themselves?'"

"Beats me. I'm Onmund, by the way. You all are..." the Nord gestured on behalf of the other two students towards Cura and her friends.

"I'm Serana. Nice to meet you." the Nord vampiress extended a hand for a shake.

"Are you a..." the Dunmer began, and Serana simply nodded.

"Yes, I'm a Vampire. Don't worry, though; you won't have to sleep with a garlic wreath around your neck or anything. I don't bite." Serana reassured them all.

"At least not hard." Inigo said to watch the horrified reactions around before blowing the gag with a laugh.

"I'm Lucien Flavius. Wizard-in-training and scholar from the Arcane University in Cyrodiil. Charmed." Lucien flipped his hair over his shoulder.

"I'm Inigo." Inigo said. "Inigo the Brave." he pointed at Cura. "And this is Cura, the Dragonborn!"

"Uh- Hey! I can introduce myself!" Cura protested his haste.

"Dragonborn? Here?" Onmund was shocked. "Shouldn't she be studying with the Greybeards, then?"

"Oh, please. The Dragonborn is just a myth." the Dunmer scoffed.

"Are you serious? All I've been hearing these days is about Dragons and Vampires and a Blonde Dragonborn half-elven woman with a mace and shield fighting style making waves throughout the province! And here's a blonde Breton with a vampire in her group with a mace and shield." Onmund was surprised that she hadn't heard the rumours. "She must be!"

"Prove it." the Dunmer demanded. "Give us a Shout! I've heard the legends!"

Cura groaned. This again?

"You want a Shout? I'll give you a Shout!" Cura took a couple of steps back. "FUS!"

The wind lightly knocked the Dark Elf back, causing her to stagger. When she regained her footing, her eyes opened wide and her jaw dropped. "You... you really are Dragonborn!"

Cura shrugged her shoulders. "I'm Vigilant Cura of the Pale; Vigilant of Stendarr, member of the Dawnguard, Companion, Thane of Whiterun, Windhelm, and Morthal, and yes, the Dragonborn."

"Why are you here, with us?" Onmund asked.

"To hone my magical skills." Cura responded frankly. "There is always room for improvement."

The Dunmer girl nodded. "Fair enough."

As soon as Cura was about to ask her of herself, the Dark Elf raised a hand. "Before you even ask, yes I have an ancestry steeped in magic, and no I don't want to talk about it. Yes, I know Winterhold used to be full of my kind, and no I don't care that they're all gone now. Does that cover everything?"

"I just wanted to know your name." Cura held out both hands, baffled.

The Dark Elf sighed and embarrassingly placed a hand on her forehead before continuing. "Brelyna Maryon, of House Telvanni. First of my family to leave Morrowind in a long time. Now I'm here to study Conjuration. That's what's important."

Serana gave her a thumbs up. "I can understand that. It's nice to see that not everybody in Skyrim looks down on it."

Brelyna was happy to hear it, but she had other matters pressing down on her. "There's a lot of pressure for me to excel in my studies. I hope I can live up to expectations."

"Do you like it here at the College?" Cura asked her earnestly.

"So far, if only because no one is telling me how great I ought to be. I just want to learn, I don't want to think about what's expected of me." Brelyna admitted.

"Makes me happier every day that I had my parents growing up." Lucien admitted. "They never forced anything on me; they let me be myself."

"So, Winterhold used to be full of Dark Elves?" Cura asked.

"Didn't you know? Before the Oblivion Crisis, many elves called Winterhold their home." Brelyna explained. "More visited the College from Morrowind every year. After, growing distrust of magic made life difficult for many. Some left rather than endure the growing hatred from the local Nords. Others returned home after the Red Year, when Vvardenfell erupted and caused much destruction. Winterhold itself died in the years between then and now. What's left out there is a husk. Only the College really remains."

The gray Khajiit member of the class seemed to be practicing fireballs on one of the training statues nearby, and Cura separated to go and speak with him while Lucien and Serana carried on in conversation with Onmund and Brelyna. "Hello; I don't think we've been properly introduced. I'm Cura."

"You are new, yes?" the gray cat asked as he held a fireball in his hand, readying to target the statue once more.

"Yes. This is my first day." Cura confessed.

"Have you mastered the Expert level destruction spells yet?" he asked as he launched his fireball and accidentally hit the wall above the statue. "Tsk."

"Not yet, but I will. I intend to try and learn as much as I can in various schools." Cura stated.

"Ah, this is good. But J'zargo will know them first. It is good to finally be around mages who may be able to keep up with J'zargo." the Khajiit said with a hearty laugh.

Cura scoffed in amusement. "Well, you seem quite sure of yourself."

"There is much for J'zargo to be sure of. There is skill in magic, there is charm, and there is a strong will. J'zargo will be successful, of this there is no doubt." J'zargo boasted outright.

"Where is he..." Cura began to look around the room from her angle in the hopes of locating Inigo, and he popped around the pillar behind her.

"I am here, my friend!" the blue Khajiit exclaimed, causing Cura to jump.

"YEEK! Don't do that!" Cura admonished him for his mischief, but the cat only laughed in response, causing Cura to huff and place her hands on her hips snobbishly.

"J'zargo?" Inigo turned his attention to the Khajiit.

"Yes?" came his attention.

"I am pleased to meet you. My name is Inigo." Cura's cat friend joyfully introduced himself.

"Very good. You must be very skilled with magic, yes?" the gray Khajiit asked the blue one.

"Err, no. Magic and I have a troubled and very messy past. I will leave that side of things up to you." Inigo gestured around the room awkwardly.

J'zargo was a little perturbed. "A messy past? Khajiit will tell J'zargo more about this sometime, yes?"

Inigo was feeling quite chipper today. "Sure. One of these days, when I am not following my friend here on a date with Dragons and Daedra." he then flipped the question. "Do you have much skill with a bow and a sword? Those are my strengths."

"In truth, I do not." J'zargo confessed.

"Well, I'm sure together our talents would prove mutually beneficial." Inigo said excitedly. "Maybe one day you will join us on our dates with Dragons and Daedra."

"We will see." J'zargo responded with uncertainty.

Cura decided that she wanted to explore more of the College campus. As she walked around the magic well in the center of the room, she was accosted by the snobbish Thalmor agent, Ancano, who only seemed to be waiting for her.

Great.

Cura tried not to look him directly in the eyes. He wasn't at Elenwen's Solar, was he?

"Another new Apprentice, I see. Are you of the sort that believe you're here to change the world? Or are you only in it for yourself? I assure you that I'll be watching you - all of you - very closely." the Elf sneered hatefully.

At least he was honest with his ill intentions, she'll give him that.

"Here to change the world, I guess." Cura responded sarcastically. "I think it would look much nicer if we painted everything blue. What do you think?"

"Don't try and be smart with me, you little rat." Ancano tried, and failed, to intimidate the Breton. "I'm going to keep my eye on you, especially."

"Just give me a break when I bathe, all right? I prefer to be modest." Cura attempted to walk past him, but he sidled to the right, blocking her passage.

"Be very careful." Ancano sneered again.

"So... what is it you do here, exactly?" Cura pried a little, herself, relieved by the fact that he had no idea who she even was.

"I am an advisor to the Arch-Mage. The Thalmor wish to promote relations with your College. I am at the Arch-Mage's disposal if he requires advice." Ancano merely stated the pen and ink version of the truth.

Cura was thanking the gods that he didn't ask for her name. Though, perhaps antagonizing him wasn't the greatest idea. He could always write about her to Elenwen, and then she would be under her gaze once more.

Though, Cura had agreed to visit her one of these days. Perhaps she would follow up on that. It could prove useful on dealing with Ancano should the need arise. For now, though, she wanted to inquire futher. "Does the Arch-Mage often ask for advice?"

"Perhaps not as often as he should." Ancano admitted, though his tongue quickly split into a forked one. "In time, I believe he will be more trusting."

"I'd like to know more about the Thalmor." Cura stated. "Your organization has... intrigued me, I must admit."

"Now that stability has been established between the Dominion and the Empire, we seek only to help Skyrim. To guide its people through this time of transition, to help lead them to a better future." Ancano lied through his teeth so widely that the words just about came out a black vapour from his throat.

"If that's the case, then what was that conversation with Mirabelle about?" Cura prodded some more.

"Your superior and I were simply having a... discussion about my level of access to the College." Ancano was becoming visibly annoyed with the mosquito-biting questions. He knew that he could keep swatting them away, but eventually one would get to his blood.

"Really? It sounded more like an argument to me." Cura remarked. The 'cooperation' he spoke of was surface-level, at best.

"Well, perhaps that is why you're merely an Apprentice here." Ancano turned around to walk towards the exit door and tilted his face upwards, but he couldn't do it would getting at least one insult in there. "I have many important things on my mind. Your concerns are not among them."

Cura really couldn't believe it.

Elenwen, Rulundil, and Ondolemar, and yet this guy was worse than all of them.

As soon as Cura approached the entrance door, she almost ran into a tall Dunmer wearing long black and brown hooded robes adorned with decorative patterns and feathered laces on the bottom brims of it. She quickly surmised that he must have been the Arch-Mage because of his raiment. "Oops! Oh, sorry."

The Arch-Mage wasn't angered, and dismissed her apology, as it was unneeded. He smiled to the new student softly. "You are relatively new here, are you not? I have noticed you, but we have not spoken."

Cura shook her head. "No, sir."

""Sir"? How quaint." the Dunmer scratched his chin as he felt a mix of curiosity and amusement at her choice of formal language. "I am Savos Aren, Arch-Mage of the College of Winterhold. I am quite content to see nearly any aspect of magic explored and investigated here. But I do not and will not approve of any research and experiments that cause purposeful harm to your fellow members of the College. Are we clear?"

"Absolutely, sir." Cura responded. "My magicks will never be used to harm fellow students, nor faculty."

"Good to hear." the Arch-Mage was pleased to hear it.

"It sounds like dangerous research must be a problem here." Cura wondered, and the Arch-Mage immediately set her at ease.

"Not often, no. Some risks must be taken, to be sure. I am simply trying to avoid untimely deaths. We also must make an effort to avoid worsening what Skyrim thinks of us." Savos explained.

"What's the purpose of the College?" Cura wanted to understand more of the convention of it.

"Purpose? I should think it's self-evident." the Arch-Mage nearly took the question for a joke, embarrassing the Breton for having asked it in the first place. "Magic is a true power, not something to be shunned by commoners or treated as an amusing diversion by politicians. It shapes worlds, creates and destroys life... It deserves proper respect and study. The College is a place where we can focus on that, without the pressures of the world weighing down on us."

"I meant more that I'd like to know more about the College's history." Cura reiterated. "It must be more than just a spell-practicing grounds."

"I've seen documents dating back to the late Second Era. Beyond that, it's hard to say. Events in the last several hundred years resulted in a significant loss of our history, I'm afraid." Savos admitted solemnly.

"Ah, the catastrophe that destroyed the city, I suppose." Cura pondered/

"The Great Collapse, as it has come to be known. An unfortunate natural disaster that ravaged the area. The College fared far better than the city of Winterhold, but it was not left untouched." Savos lamented.

"I've heard rumours, but what really caused the Great Collapse?" Cura asked.

"No one is sure of the cause. Some believed the eruption of Red Mountain had far-reaching consequences that were only felt years later. I know there are some who have blamed the College, said that we were responsible. I assure you this is not the case." the Arch-Mage immediately dispelled that rumour, in case that was what Cura was referring to.

The student's thirst for insight was insatiable, it seemed, as Cura continued to pry. "Tell me more about the Great Collapse. What was it like? Were you there to see it?"

The Arch-Mage was more than happy to indulge. "The Sea of Ghosts practically came alive. No one was expecting it. Monstrous waves battered the shore for weeks on end. Winterhold was ancient and weathered, but it couldn't withstand the sea's fury. Entire districts of the city were lost overnight. The waves receded in time, but the damage was irreversible. Most residents of Winterhold abandoned what was left of the city. The College survived, and so here we remain."

"Wow..." was the only response Cura could muster.

"Now if you'll excuse me, I must return to my office..." the Arch-Mage walked past her and headed through the door to his left and headed up the stairs.

Cura walked outside into the white courtyard and Lucien caught up with her. "One course down, and many more to go, Candle! Are you having a good time so far?"

"I am." Cura responded in friendly manner. "How about you, Lucien? I know you weren't impressed with the first lesson, or the entrance exam, but what do you think so far?"

"I think I could grow to like it here. As much as it's lacking, it is still a brand-new experience!" Lucien stated optimistically. "I'm sure in time things will pick up."

As they walked past the mage statue in the courtyard, a frazzled-looking brown-haired Breton woman grabbed Cura by the shoulders and came uncomfortably close. She seemed very tense and she gripped her shoulders hard, her fingers like vice grips. "YOU think Restoration is a perfectly valid school of magic, worthy of study, don't you? Don't you?!" the disheveled Breton asked calmly.

"Huh? Of course it's valid." Cura responded a tad nervously. She was quite deeply into it herself, after all. Who could live without Healing Spells? Literally? And the power to fry Vampires and the Undead was a great asset, if her last major excursion was no indication of that.

"Good, good. Not that I require validation, of course." the manic Breton woman gently released her. as she slowly began to reach a calmer state, though she quickly slipped back into her frazzled carriage and rode the street to Mania "There are just some - and I shan't name names - who would disagree. It can make life difficult when one's colleagues fail to recognize the research one engages in." She was almost in another country by this point with how far her mind was sailing.

"Hello, Colette." Cura smiled and waved awkwardly after the encounter. She looked to Lucien and pointed to her and mouthed inaudibly; "That's her.", and Lucien understood.

The Imperial decided to ask something of his own. "So you're treated badly because of your work?"

"Well... No. Not really. Not directly, I mean. But I know things are said behind my back. Conversations cease when I enter rooms. I'm quite aware of what's going on here, and I will not stand for it!" Colette Marence snapped in frustration towards the open air, looking around to see if any of her colleagues were around to direct it at.

"Hello, Colette." Cura waved slower as she tried to grab her attention, but she was very high-strung at the moment.

"That's awful. Restoration has so many incredible uses! The Vigil Keeper once saved my life, in fact, when I nearly bled to death in the water! Oh, it was atrocious! But after that, I have absolutely no complaints when it comes to Restoration." Lucien proclaimed.

"Wait... the Vigil Keeper?" Colette snapped out of her mania, and looked at Cura again.

"Hello, Colette." Cura said one final time as she finally caught her attention.

"Ohhh, wait. Wait a second! You... something is quite familiar about you..." the older Breton began to try and recall where she knew Cura from. "I've seen you before... yes. A long time ago... err..." she snapped her fingers a few times. "Ah! You're Carcette's little Protege, aren't you? Clara? Ciara? Clarice? Cora? Corie? Cara...? No..."Before Cura could interject, Colette waved a dismissive hand. "no! No, don't stop me! I'll get it! I've got it... not Kendra... not Carmine... not Curia... Ah! Cura! Cura! That was it!"

Cura smiled and nodded. "Wow. You remembered."

"Of course! I never forget!" Colette laughed until she saw one of the other teachers, a Breton male with a set of Master Robes and a balding spot on his head walk by. "I... NEVER... FORGET!" she yelled, directing the second one at him.

He dismissed her with a hand wave and continued onwards towards the interior.

"Yes, so, I still have the Alembic, you know." Colette returned softly towards Cura. "It's given me a lot of use the past six years."

"Good, that's good." Cura replied.

"So, how is Carcette doing? Is she well? Is she alive?" Colette asked. "I've been worried sick since I'd heard about what happened to the Hall. She hasn't written me in over a year. You just don't do that to people!"

"It's been a hectic year." Cura informed her. "And, well, she's... not exactly well, but still existing."

"Poor dear." Colette lamented. "Maybe I'll make her a good pick-me-up; a good old Healing Salve like back in Wayrest."

"I don't think it'll help." Cura grit her teeth. She was trying her best to dodge the topic of the Keeper's vampirism.

"Where is she? Maybe I'll pay her a visit." Colette volunteered. "Er... that is, if it's safe to head out of the city again..."

"No, it's dangerous everywhere you go these days." Cura warned her. "But she's, uh, working with the Dawnguard, and, uh... yeah."

"She really should come up and pay me a visit!" Colette snapped. "She can make time for complete strangers, but not for an old friend? That's just not how you treat people! Do you know what I mean? Huh? You do, right?"

Cura sighed. "Yes, and I'll talk to her about it when I see her next."

"Good girl. She raised you with some sense!" Colette expressed.

"So, uh, now that I have you, can you teach me some Restoration spells?" Cura asked.

"Well, you can come to my lecture first thing tomorrow morning." Colette told her. "I'm going to be teaching everyone about a great sort of Restoration Spell - the kind you don't read about in books!"

Cura was a little concerned. "Uh... okay...?"

"Oh, it will be just grand! Restoration is always associated with Healing, but it can also be used for other purposes. I've just got to find a willing volunteer first!" Colette exclaimed.

"I'll do it." Lucien volunteered, hoping for a little bit of excitement in the next class.

"Would you, now?" Colette asked. "I want you to be absolutely certain before you decide to be used as an example."

"I'm okay with it; Restoration Magic has saved my life before! How bad could it be?" Lucien laughed it off.

"Well... okay, if you say so." Colette relented. "I'll see the both of you tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock. Better be there." She continued walking towards the interior.

Cura looked at Lucien with great surprise. "You just volunteered to be a test subject..."

"Uh-huh!" Lucien puffed out his chest proudly.

"...For Colette Marence, the least stable professor in the college..." Cura continued.

"That's right!" Lucien confirmed proudly.

"...For a demonstration in alternate uses for Restoration magic..." Cura's tone slowly began to sink as she tried to guide him to the realization that his life may be at risk.

"She used to be a Priestess of Stendarr, right? I don't think she's going to kill me." Lucien scoffed.

"Did I ever tell you why she left the Temple of Stendarr?" Cura asked.

"I guess it's because Carcette did? They seem like really good friends, and - "

"She accidentally turned a war patient inside-out and was asked to leave." Cura finished.

Lucien's smile slowly left his face, and he began to realize that his life may be at risk. "Oh, well... uh... maybe that was in her earlier days?"

Cura shook her head and continued walkig towards the Hall of Attainment.

"Candle, wait for me!" Lucien yelled as he rushed after her.

For a first day, it went quite well, Cura found. Later that evening she sat at her writing desk and decided to begin keeping a Journal, where she would jot down her personal thoughts and progress for the day.

"Cura's Journal

Winterhold, Day One

By: Vigilant Cura of the Pale

I've decided to write a Journal, in the hopes of keeping track of my College life. Serana recommended the idea to me, and I saw no issue with it. I just hope that I can write in peace - and I use the term loosely - as I am surrounded with explosions and various other sounds above and beside me in the Hall of Attainment.

Anyways, day One:

Today, we began our first lesson with Tolfdir, the Master Alteration Wizard. He thought to prioritize safety above all things, and wound up teaching us a Restoration Spell. Fortunately, I had my brief moemnt in the spotlight, forming a great first impression, as I was quite adept at Ward Spells from the get-go. He couldn't have taught me a Ward that Keeper Carcette hadn't already. Gods, I wish she were here to see this. At the very least, she would have found it amusing, and perhaps she could have distracted Colette so we could have run before Lucien volunteered himself as a -s-a-c-r-i-f-i-c-e- demonstration target.

There's also a Thalmor agent prowling the grounds like a Saber Cat, and I don't trust him as far as I could Shout him. He apparently wants to advise the Arch-Mage. Advise him of what? What kind of toiletries to use?

No. It's clearly something nefarious. I understand that about the Thalmor. They're serpents in the grass. They can't be trusted. Ancano is the epitome of this. I'm happy that Mirabelle put him in his place.

Aside from that, however, the day was quite fun.

I met my new classmates: Brelyna, J'zargo, and Onmund. It seems that no matter where I go, people just can't seem to believe me to be Dragonborn on first glance. I suppose it's both a blessing and a curse to be a cute little half-elf and the hero of legend.

Brelyna seemed a little tense to be here, but she's certainly had a lot of pressure mounted upon her for her entire life as a Member of House Telvanni. I don't know all that much about the noble houses of Morrowind, admittedly, but I have heard of the ruthless nature of the Telvanni wizards and their will to power. I just hope she stays true to herself and learns at her own pace. Her background should not be a leg iron towards her learning process.

J'zargo. Oh, that J'zargo. His head was so large he probably needed a shrinking spell to fit it under his hood! I don't think I've ever met anyone so arrogant before, though perhaps the Companions could come close. Or... myself on one of my off days, I suppose. Will he become a successful wizard? I'm sure of it. If he can gain mastery over himself, he might even be the future Arch-Mage.

Onmund. He was quite meek, for a Nord. I would have been surprised about a Nord wanting to learn magic if I hadn't grown up surrounded by Vigilants of Stendarr, many of whom were Nords who knew Restoration and Alteration spells. Perhaps I will bring that up to him; it may offer him some consolation to feel less alone in the modern world.

I look forward to studying alongside them, Lucien, and Serana. Perhaps we could even convince Inigo to try his hand at a spell or two, I would love it if he learned how to Heal himself; Restoration really is useful, contrary to what Colette's detractors believe. Though, I somehow think their disbelief stems more from the mage herself, as opposed to her magicks.

I really hope she isn't going to kill Lucien tomorrow.

Though, I suppose we'll just have to see what tomorrow brings. I'm certain he's going to be all right, but I will say an extra prayer to Stendarr on his behalf, to be certain."

As soon as Cura finished writing on the first two pages of the book, she put down the quill and blew on the ink, allowing it to settle and dry. Then she gently closed the cover and slid the book under the desk, in attempt to hide it from prying eyes as she walked over to her bed and pulled the covers over herself, getting ready to face the second day.

Before falling asleep, she said a prayer for her family, Lucien, then Inigo, then Serana, and then her new friends, the land, and lastly, herself. Then she closed her eyes and drifted peacefully off to sleep.